It's VIP Time for Must-Have Fall Basics
The falling leaves and crispness in the air leave no doubt that fall is here to stay. Which means chunky sweaters are back in rotation, loafers have replaced open toe sandals and layered suiting seems to be everywhere. With the plethora of wearable trends, it’s a welcomed season for those of us who, first and foremost, love to shop our own closets.
We also welcome the accessibility of trendy pieces to pair with these basics. No crazy shapes or cutouts, unflattering volume or second skin must-haves. Instead, you’ll find tailored basics that can be mixed and matched for any occasion and worn with those tried and true pieces you like grabbing for.
It's likely you already own a good number of the 3 must-have basics this season:
White tank top
Black trouser pants
Basic blazer
If these classics are not in your closet, then it’s time to fill in those gaps. If you own all of the above, get ready to spice 'em up!
WHITE TANK
Every designer from Prada to Zara has a version of a U-neck ribbed tank top. You want to look for a good fit, with enough stretch to keep the shape. Below is one of my favorites from Z Supply:
BLACK TROUSER PANTS
These classic pants are your new denim alternative. Worn with t-shirts and blazers and your favorite sneakers, or as a suit, black trousers will be your new daily go-to pant option.
In terms of fit, bigger is better. While a slim, tailored fit never goes out of style, the current fit du jour is slightly slouchy, a subtle “puddle” (think: accumulated fabric) and a wider leg or slim flare. Don’t get rid of your ankle straight leg, just make sure you have this leg lengthening version as well.
BASIC BLAZER
The classic blazer in black is, in my opinion, the most essential item in your closet. But this season, it’s also a great way to bring in color! Oversized or double breasted, try your favorite fit in hot pink, bold red or bright green. Most wearable way to add color? Keep everything else understated and stick to clean lines.
“When in doubt, layer with a blazer.”
VESTS
In addition to the ubiquitous blazer, vests have made a major comeback. Menswear in general abounds this season so it’s no wonder that vests are showing up both worn alone or layered. Options run the gamut from flannel to leather; double-breasted to riding vests.
LEATHER
Leather (real, vegan or faux) tops or jackets are once again on the must-have list. My favorite way to incorporate leather into our wardrobes is through outerwear. From blazers, to puffers, the omnipresent bombers to trench coats, there is a leather version for all.
DENIM
No single item changes more per season than denim. Move your skinny jeans to the back of the closet, keep those straight legs accessible, but make sure to add a straight leg with a subtle flare or slit front. Like the pants of the season, denim is going longer and wider.
SLIP DRESS
Slip dresses and silk and satin skirts have made a major show this season. These items are as versatile as the aforementioned denim and black pants. Pair them with your moto jacket, an oversized sweater, blazer and top off with a white tank or tee, they can be either dressed up or dressed down.
SHOES
Bigger is better when it comes to shoes. Valentino and Saint Laurent have perfected the platform party shoe, but for those of us looking for an update to our everyday shoe, lug soles, and flatforms show up on everything from loafers to lace-up boots.
Other notable shoe trends: Western-inspired boots are having a moment, as are exaggerated square toes, and knee-high boots so pull out your Stuart Weitzmans because the higher the bootleg, the better.
Everlasting trend? Wear what works best on your body. Trends are always fun to follow, but truly dressing in style, is dressing for your body and lifestyle.
Wondering what that looks like on you? Give us a call!